When students returned to campus after a restful Thanksgiving break, campus was coated with a freshly fallen layer of snow, inviting them to make the most of the short and sweet stretch between Thanksgiving and winter break. December under the Mountain was filled with traditions, festive activities, and countless celebrations for every Bear to enjoy!

 The first weekend back, Bears flooded the Jack for the annual D’Arco Cup (also known as the Pink Out Hockey Game) against the Taft School. Every member of Bear Nation picked out their finest pink outfit, in shades ranging from striking fluorescent to subtle pastel, to cheer on the Boys’ Varsity Hockey team. The rivalry between schools culminated in the stands with lighthearted banter and roaring chants as the puck skipped across the ice. With every eye glued to the puck, Berkshire gradually climbed the scoreboard. The spirited night ended with a five-to-one win for Berkshire, one of the first of the team’s many victories this season. Pink Out 2024 was filled with enthusiasm, encouragement, and lots of pink!

 The second and last weekend of December was packed with opportunities to both celebrate the community and the upcoming holidays. As a part of Berkshire’s Pro Vita programming, the third annual Drop Everything and Discover Your Joy day invited the community to connect through shared interests and newfound hobbies. A wide variety of activities were offered from going on a nature walk and singing karaoke to baking cookies and playing pickleball. Bears across every form were joined together through one of the many joyful activities. To wrap up a community-filled day, the Student Activities Committee organized cookie and gingerbread house decorating in the dining hall, a festive (and delicious!) way to get in the holiday spirit. 

 December under the Mountain was merry, vibrant, and celebratory, teeing us up for the rest of an amazing winter trimester.